Rio Ferdinand defends Jose Mourinho over Vinicius Jr racism row

Rio Ferdinand has defended Jose Mourinho amid the controversy over allegations of racial abuse involving Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. Ferdinand said the former coach is not a racist and suggested Mourinho may regret how he handled the episode. Vinicius accused Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni of calling him a 'monkey' during a Champions League play-off clash, and Mourinho's response — saying the forward had partially incited the home crowd — drew strong criticism.

When pressed on whether Vinicius was responsible, Mourinho said "yes, I believe so," a remark that prompted accusations he was blaming a victim. On his podcast, Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former England captain acknowledged the delivery was flawed but defended Mourinho's character, calling him a father figure to many players.

"I think Jose Mourinho has done enough for black footballers...to suggest that the guy hasn't got a racist bone in his body," Ferdinand said, while also expressing a wish to hear Mourinho's current thoughts on the matter.

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